November 2025
The 2025 Scholastic Preseason Invitational once again set the tone for Texas high school basketball. From powerhouse programs to hidden gems, the gym was packed with elite talent, competitive fire, and future champions in the making. The atmosphere felt like a March playoff run — fast-paced, physical, and filled with players chasing greatness.
Duncanville, led by Christopher Hunt Jr., brought intensity and focus from the opening tip. Hunt’s leadership and confidence at the point guard spot guided his team’s energy, showing why Duncanville remains a model of consistency and championship culture.
Faith Family Academy looked the part of a national powerhouse. Josiah Rose and Xavier Young were elite on both ends — versatile, composed, and efficient. They led a group that already plays like a program used to championship pressure.
Grace Prep’s own MJ Boyd continues to rise among the state’s elite guards. His court vision, pace, and ability to take over games in crucial moments proved why he’s climbing national rankings.
Birdville’s duo of Sawyer Dotson and Avery Webb played with toughness and IQ, the kind of leadership and chemistry that make championship teams. Dotson’s all-around impact and Webb’s physical edge were clear standouts.
Red Oak looked hungry — disciplined, aggressive, and locked in. With players like Devan Kirk, KJ Bradford, and Anthony Burdine, this group carries the toughness and balance of a team capable of a deep state playoff run. They’re built for February and beyond.
Isaiah Johnson from Roosevelt continues to show why he’s one of the top bigs in Texas. At 6’9”, his length and defensive timing changed games, while his offensive growth is starting to catch up to his elite interior presence.
Dylan Franklin (Crandall) and Kensington Candler (Little Elm) both impressed with strength and confidence, proving their ability to compete against elite competition. Isaak Hayes and North Crowley High School brought physicality and defensive toughness that defined their identity all weekend.
Shaqere Kizzee and Carter High School carried tradition and pride into the event. Kizzee’s combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in Texas, while Carter’s defensive energy and tempo made every game a battle.
Silas Rodriguez, the state MVP from Denton Guyer, played with maturity beyond his years — poised, confident, and in full control of every possession.
Mesquite’s Alex Alexander showed flashes of promise as a dual forward with length and mobility, giving his team energy on both ends and showing real growth.
The Scholastic Preseason Invitational once again proved that Texas basketball runs deep. The event featured future state champions, future district champions, and regional contenders sharpening their tools under the same roof. Nobody came to be seen — they came to get better.
From start to finish, the competition was real, the atmosphere was electric, and the future was on full display.
From nationally ranked programs to hungry local powerhouses, the message was the same-competition makes you better. The Scholastic Preseason Invitational hosted future state champions, future district champions, and future regional champions. Every player who walked into that gym got better. Every team left with an identity.
The Invitational didn’t crown winners or hand out trophies. It did something better. It revealed who’s ready for what’s next.
First Team
Josiah Rose | Faith Family Academy
Christopher Hunt Jr. | Duncanville High School
MJ Boyd | Grace Prep Academy
Isaiah Johnson | Dallas Roosevelt High School
Shaqere Kizzee | Dallas Carter High School
Sawyer Dotson | Birdville High School
Kensington Candler | Little Elm
Xavier Young | Faith Family Academy
Isaak Hayes | North Crowley High School
Devan Kirk | Red Oak High School
Jaelon Germany | Crowley High School
Drey Guy | The Episcopal School of Dallas
Dylan Franklin | Crandall High School
Terrell Jackson | Dallas Carter High School
Kayden Gray | Kimball High School
Jonathan Bradley | Dallas South Oak Cliff High School
Ryland Groom | Duncanville High School
Nehemiah Lawrence | Allen High School
Anthony Spencer | Desoto High School
Second Team
Silas Rodriguez | Denton Guyer High School
Alex Alexander | Mesquite High School
Avery Webb | Birdville High School
AJ Burdine | Red Oak High School
KJ Bradford | Red Oak High School
Kollin Douglas | Lancaster High School
Jeremiah Thirdkill | Crowley High School
Amarion Hunter | Dallas Carter High School
Braelon Orr | Brewer High School
Jaysean Wilkerson | Lake Highlands High School
Max Moody | Faith Family Academy
Michael Sorrell Jr. | The Episcopal School of Dallas
Trey Hall | North Crowley High School
Montrell Horner | Dallas Lincoln High School
Brayden Williams | Faith Family Academy
DJ Driver | Birdville High School
Cino Nagin | Parish Episcopal School
Jamirion Rice | James Madison High School